Wara Samar
21st October 2024
Enhancing Precision in Needle Insertion: Medulla Pro’s Real-Time Guidance Technology
Lumbar puncture is a well-established procedure, yet its success often depends on the skill of the physician using traditional methods like palpation and “blind” needle insertion. This reliance leads to a high procedural failure rate, particularly in challenging cases such as those involving obese patients or individuals with spinal deformities. While ultrasound-assisted procedure has been shown to improve success rates, reduce needle redirections, and decrease the occurrence of traumatic taps, existing ultrasound probes have limitations, notably their inability to support direct in-plane needle entry for real-time guidance.
Medulla Pro aims to bridge this gap with a cutting-edge solution, offering clinicians real-time guidance of needle insertion that makes procedures safer and more efficient.
A Solution Born from Real-World Challenges
Medulla Pro’s journey began with a practical problem encountered by Dr. Eugene, their clinical advisor, who struggled with performing lumbar punctures on obese patients. Recognizing a need for a more effective approach, Medulla Pro’s team sought to leverage ultrasound technology to guide difficult needle insertions. After extensive research and development, the company introduced a device that offers real-time, in-plane guidance, aiming to transform how clinicians approach complex procedures.
“Our technology is designed to make guided procedures the standard of care, supporting clinicians with enhanced clarity and confidence“
said Boyle Suwono, CEO of Medulla Pro. “We believe that guided needle insertion should become a norm in medical practice.”
Overcoming Engineering Challenges for Improved Precision
Medulla Pro’s technology allows ultrasound waves to bend, creating an opportunity for in-plane needle entry with a very intuitive trajectory. However, achieving this level of precision was not without its obstacles.
The team encountered significant engineering challenges, especially in maintaining high-quality imaging while optimizing the device for different medical procedures. Through persistence and creativity, they developed a solution that meets the standards required for real-world clinical environments, ensuring that practitioners can benefit from both clarity and accuracy during procedures.
What Sets Medulla Pro Apart
Medulla Pro’s guidance system distinguishes itself in the market with three core capabilities: real-time guidance, in-plane needle insertion, and intuitive needle trajectory. While other solutions may offer one or two of these features, Medulla Pro is the only one to integrate all three, providing a comprehensive tool that enhances both safety and precision.
This combination ensures that clinicians can perform procedures more confidently, reducing the risks associated with blind insertion techniques. The intuitive design allows for smoother integration into existing workflows, making it easier for healthcare professionals to adopt the technology.
A Promising Path Forward: Clinical Trials and Future Expansion
With the first device set for clinical trials early next year, Medulla Pro aims to enter the market by 2025. The initial focus is on lumbar puncture procedures, a critical area where the device’s benefits are most apparent. Beyond this, the company plans to expand its application to include peripheral nerve blocks, biopsies, and other needle-based procedures.
Medulla Pro has received positive feedback from the medical community, particularly from younger clinicians who face difficulties in performing procedures in patients who are obese, old, or have spinal deformities. This excitement underscores the potential for the device to meet a critical need in modern medical practice.
AI Integration and Strategic Goals for the Future
While the company’s current focus is on refining its real-time ultrasound guidance system, Medulla Pro envisions incorporating AI-driven features in future versions. These enhancements could offer additional support to clinicians during procedures, further elevating the device’s accuracy and ease of use.
Medulla Pro’s long-term strategy includes expanding into key markets such as the US, EU, and APAC, while also exploring new applications for its technology. The company is actively seeking partners and investors who share its vision of making guided needle insertion a routine part of medical practice, contributing to safer and more precise outcomes for patients worldwide.
A Vision for Safer, More Accurate Procedures
With its innovative approach to ultrasound-guided needle insertion, Medulla Pro is poised to address long-standing challenges in medical procedures. By offering real-time guidance and a user-friendly design, the company aims to set a new standard for safety and precision in minimally invasive procedures. As Medulla Pro prepares for its next phase of growth, it remains committed to helping healthcare professionals deliver better care through improved procedural guidance.
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